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A DOGS PRAYER
"Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the thing you would have me learn.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls on my waiting ears.
Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements, and ask no greater glory than the privilage of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.
Keep my pan filled with water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.
Feed me clean food, that I may stay well to romp and play and do your bidding; to walk by your side and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life should your life be in danger.
And master, when I am old, if the Great Master sees fit to deprive me of my health and sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather see that my trusting life is taken gently, and I shall leave you knowing that with the last breath I drew my fate was always safest in your hands."
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